Sustainable Wellness

A closed customer service drive-thru at OUC’s Gardenia facility was repurposed with a Rain Harvest Garden and Living Wall. This sustainability feature combines conservation and aesthetics, using vertical, Florida-friendly landscaping, edible plants and self-sufficient gardening practices to reduce water use and encourage wellness.

Rain Harvest Garden

The Sustainable Rain Harvest Garden is a hybrid garden that has a minimal impact on the environment and works in harmony with nature. The strategically placed plants allow for the creation of pollinators and attractors for butterflies, bees and birds – all while allowing for natural pest and disease mitigation. Additionally, the garden is full of edible plants like herbs, seeds and berries and that can be eaten. Edible plants are higher in nutrients than those that travel thousands of miles to get to the grocery store.

The sustainable gardens is self-sufficient and includes all of the following:

Living Wall

The Living Wall is just one way OUC embraces sustainability to ensure a greener future. During each season, the wall is refreshed with seasonal edible plants and Florida-friendly and drought-tolerant plants. Plants are strategically placed (or companion planted) so they are stronger and can thrive, while also allowing for pest and disease mitigation, creation of pollinators and attractors for butterflies, bees and birds. Edible and medicinal plants are located on one side of the wall, and Florida-friendly and drought-tolerant succulent plants fill in the rest.